CPI-U in 1941
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 14.7 in 1941 (1982–84 = 100), 5.0% above the 1940 average. From December 1940 to December 1941, prices rose 9.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 22.79 times their 1941 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1941
The highest monthly index in 1941 was 15.5 (December), the lowest 14.1 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +0.7% in February to +10.0% in November. Historical context — Depression recovery (1934–1941): Prices recovered slowly after the 1933 devaluation of the dollar.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1941 | 14.1 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| February 1941 | 14.1 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| March 1941 | 14.2 | +0.7% | +1.4% |
| April 1941 | 14.3 | +0.7% | +2.1% |
| May 1941 | 14.4 | +0.7% | +2.9% |
| June 1941 | 14.7 | +2.1% | +4.3% |
| July 1941 | 14.7 | 0.0% | +5.0% |
| August 1941 | 14.9 | +1.4% | +6.4% |
| September 1941 | 15.1 | +1.3% | +7.9% |
| October 1941 | 15.3 | +1.3% | +9.3% |
| November 1941 | 15.4 | +0.7% | +10.0% |
| December 1941 | 15.5 | +0.6% | +9.9% |
CPI-U, U.S. city average, all items, not seasonally adjusted, 1982–84 = 100 (BLS series CUUR0000SA0). Before 2007 the BLS published the index to one decimal place. Annual average 14.7 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1941: common questions
What was the CPI in 1941?
The CPI-U annual average for 1941 was 14.7 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 14.1 to 15.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1941?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 5.0% in 1941; December to December the change was +9.9%.
How much is $100 from 1941 worth today?
About $2,278.78 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.